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ABSTRACT
Due to the increasing demand for efficient, effective, and profitable applications of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in various industries, there is an immense need for professionals with the right skills to meet this demand. As a result, several institutions have started to offer AI programs. Yet, there is a notable gap in academia: the absence of a comprehensive, technically focused framework for developing a master's program in Applied AI specifically tailored to meet the demands of the Computer and Information Systems (CIS) discipline. This paper addresses this gap by proposing a graduate-level Applied AI program framework for CIS students. This framework comprises an example graduate-level curriculum that focuses on critical competencies in the application of AI, including data analytics, machine learning, natural language processing, computer vision, AI ethics and governance, AI project management, IT infrastructure for AI systems, and AI-driven innovation. By following this framework, institutions can develop customized master's programs that align with the evolving field of AI and prepare CIS graduates to excel in diverse industries.
Keywords: Artificial intelligence, Applied learning, Graduate education, CIS curriculum, Competency
1. INTRODUCTION
Artificial Intelligence (AI) represents a paradigm shift that extends the capabilities of traditional software beyond symbolic programming to create systems with advanced, intelligent behavior. Unlike conventional software based on predefined rules and logic, AI systems are designed to learn from data, adapt to new scenarios, and make decisions with a degree of autonomy that mimics human cognition. This ability to learn and adapt is crucial in tasks involving pattern recognition, natural language processing, and complex problem-solving, where conventional software falls short. For example, while AI and traditional software can automate tasks, AI excels in scenarios requiring adaptability and continuous learning, such as dynamic fraud-detection systems or personalized medicine, where it continually improves accuracy and effectiveness based on new data.
The rapid evolution of AI as a transformative technology has profound implications for how we live, work, and interact with the world. It offers businesses unparalleled insights by analyzing vast amounts of data, thereby enabling them to optimize operations, identify risks, seize new opportunities (Raisch & Krakowski, 2021) and improve customer experience (Çipi et al., 2023), making it an indispensable tool for modern businesses. Innovative AI tools like ChatGPT have been deployed to enhance education...